Pandemic, Tourism, and the Ngejot Tradition (A Socio-theological Review of Local Wisdom Based on Multiculturalism in Navigating the New Normal Era as an Alternative Path to Overcoming Economic Sluggishness)

Abstract

Bali, as one of the world's top tourist destinations, is also experiencing similar situations to other regions or countries that are tourist destinations. The sluggish economy, a consequence of no income for tourism operators, forces them to survive amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. This research uses a specific, monological case study approach that examines a single problem focus, requiring the researcher to be careful, minimize potential errors and misinterpretations, and expand opportunities to access data as research evidence. This context helps researchers see the reality of researchers in the pandemic situation and use this framework to examine the conditions and use of the socio-theological basis of Balinese society. The way to create a conducive situation during a pandemic is thru self-actualization and social needs, which are the highest human needs. From a functionalist perspective, tourists' motivation to temporarily escape their routine activities serves to restore harmony in society, thus tourism can be seen as a form of social therapy. The tradition of "ngejot" as a form of local wisdom based on socio-theological principles across cultures and religions is certainly an interesting phenomenon to examine sociologically, in order to understand individual behavior within the framework of social structure and consensus, while also surviving the pandemic era. By adopting the action of "ngejot", it means that in the social arena, we have already strengthened our social capital assets, helping each other in all forms of action. Thus, all elements of society are able to collectively overcome today's situation, hand in hand, regardless of differences in background.